However, speaking on Sky Sports News, Nicholas had some strong words for his former club, urging them to sign a defender.

"I'm happy with anybody now to be honest because this Arsenal transfer philosophy is an absolute joke", he told Sky Sports News. "It really is a joke and has been ever since David Dein left the building.

New Arsenal loan signing Denis Suarez during a training session at London Colney

"I'm confused because we all need defenders and they are hard to get. Liverpool spent £60m to £70m getting one of the best you can get, and we can't seem to identify one.

"We're the ninth richest club and we can only get loan deals. I don't care if the manager likes this player or not, please Arsenal, get some defenders in!"